[CavScout]

Here is a simple "how to" for those of you who are new to multi-player and wish to play CC5 online agaisnt another opponent.  

STEP 1.  Download the plan that fits your needs and budget.
Remember, if you choose the basic (free) plan then you will have to deal with advertisements from time to time.  

NOTE:  What you are downloading is software that installs onto your computer.  Most anti-virus/spyware programs will detect this as a form of adware or spyware. Do not delete any registry files or other files that come up during the scan that pertain to GameSpy arcade - otherwise you will experience problems later.

STEP 2.  Read through the entire "Arcade walkthrough."

This will teach you everything you need to know about GameSpy arcade and setting it up.

If you still are having problems with GameSpy, here is a good FAQ section that answers the most common issues.

Step 3.  Join the Close Combat 5 mutiplayer lobby.

This is explained in the walkthrough.

Step 4.  Test your new installation of GameSpy Arcade with another player.  (Make sure to have the same type of game/mod version as the other player you are connecting with)

Many players often find that they cannot join or host games because of firewall, router or security problems.

If you discover during your test run that you can't join or host a game, then refer to the FAQ section list above.  In most cases you just need to turn on some ports on your router.

Step 5.  Play!  

If your test run was a success, you can now play for fun.  
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Things to remember while in CC5 GameSpy lobby.

1) Just because you see a players name, it doesn't mean they are in the lobby.  Many players will leave GameSpy up on they're computers while they are away.  The best thing is to send them a private message and wait for a reply.

2) ADVERTISE!  If you want a game with someone, then open up a room and advertise for what type of game you would like.  A lot of players will jump onto GameSpy for a quick peek to see if there are any rooms up, and if not they leave.  Just because you have a room up doesn't mean you have to host.  All that can be decided after you find an opponent.

3) Be helpful to new players.  Send them here to CCS if they need a lot of help or information.

If you still need help or have a question, feel free to post a reply or send me a private message.  

~CavScout

[ Note to admins - could you please set this thread as a sticky? ty]

[dgfred]

Great tips, thanks for the info.